My A/V receiver has an HDCD decoing chip. Do i also need an HDCD player to take full advantage?

I don't think so - all you need to do is use a digital connection to your receiver from the CD player.

Dave

so, you need a HDCD decoder in either your cd player or receiver but not both. correct? I was just about ready to buy a new CD player with HDCD. Looks like i can save some money and just let the receiver do the decoding via the digital connection.

I think that is all you need - it is a variation of HT-style decoding.

Dave